Castello di Vicarello

It’s a testament to what’s special about Tuscany that it’s still even possible to find a part of it that’s not saturated with tourism. Perched on a hilltop surrounded by gently rolling hills, the Castello di Vicarello is one of these places — an authentic 12th-century castle, converted into a charming country house boutique by a couple of fashion types who moved down from Milan in search of the quiet life.

They certainly found it, and aren’t shy about sharing it; in one of these suites you’ll feel more like a house guest than a hotel patron, despite a few distinctly hotel-like amenities (not one but two swimming pools with views of the Tuscan countryside, for example). The Castello’s fashion pedigree may be immaculate, but the interiors are refreshingly light on design-magazine flash, opting instead for a smattering of Indonesian antiques against the backdrop of the castle’s old stone walls.

There’s a kitchen, which you’d stop just short of calling a restaurant — though the food is something special, drawn from the surrounding land and prepared with skill. Cooking lessons are available, as are wine tastings, but there’s no need to be formal about it — you’re sure to leave knowing a little more about the good life than you did when you arrived.

Please note: Castello di Vicarello does not permit children under 10 years old.

How to get there:
Castello di Vicarello is approximately a 1 1/2 hour drive from Florence Airport and 2 hours from Rome Fiumicino Airport.